What is Mole Mapping?
Mole Mapping uses a digital photography system to "map" your moles in their body location. Overview photographs of sectors of the body are combined with close-up images of moles in each sector, to record a specific moles location on the skin. The digital photographs are stored on the computer and may be printed on request.

Why "map" my moles?
Melanoma is the most rapidly increasing form of cancer in the US. If melanoma develops, it is important that it be detected as early as possible. Melanoma is highly curable if it is diagnosed early in its development. The DermaGraphix Mole Mapping System allows your physician to record your moles appearance over time. At the earliest sign of change we are able to intervene and remove suspicious lesions.

What occurs during a Mole Mapping session?
The patient stands in front of a photo background, while the DermaGraphix operator captures 34 body-sector images (front and back body sectors are shown below).

After body sector images are captured, close-up images of specific moles, chosen by your physician, are taken using a separate camera placed directly on the skin over the mole. Once all close-up images of moles have been captured, the session is complete.

A digital photographic record of the skin surface may be printed and placed in your chart. Optionally, you may be given prints to assist in self-examination between visits to your dermatologist.

Who are Candidates for Mole Mapping?
The following candidates may benefit from the higher standard of surveillance DermaGraphix Mole mapping system provides:

Patients with 50 or more moles

Patients with atypical moles

Patients with previous melanomas

Patients with a family history of melanoma

Your physician may recommend Mole Mapping even if you do no match the criteria listed above. You physicians professional judgement should be your guideline.

If there is a concern with a mole during your examination, your physician will suggest appropriate action. A biopsy is the only definite method to confirm a diagnosis of skin cancer.